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Low Gear: Low gear (L) is designed to mimic
the enhanced engine braking available in
non-hybrid vehicles. Low gear will produce
high engine speeds to provide necessary
engine braking. This is normal and will not
damage your vehicle. In low gear, the gas
engine will remain on more often than in
drive (D).
Unique Hybrid Operating Characteristics
Your vehicle behaves differently compared
to a non-hybrid. Here is a description of the
major differences:
Battery: Your Hybrid is equipped with a high
voltage battery. A cool battery ensures
battery life and provides the best possible
performance. Your hybrid high voltage
battery may periodically re-condition itself to
ensure maximum efficiency. You may notice
slight changes in driveability during this
process, but it is an important part of your
hybrid's high voltage battery optimization
features.
MKZ Hybrid (), enUSA
Unique Driving Characteristics
Cabin air cools the high voltage battery by
pulling air through vents in the rear package
tray. Avoid placing objects on the package
tray which could block air flow through the
vents.
If you leave your vehicle inoperative for over
31 days, it may be necessary to jumpstart the
vehicle. See Roadside Emergencies (page
252).
Engine: The engine speed in your hybrid is
not directly tied to your vehicle speed. Your
vehicle's engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at
the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach
high engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM).
In prolonged mountainous driving, you may
see the engine tachometer changing without
your input. This is intentional and maintains
the battery charge level. You may also notice
during extended downhill driving that your
engine continues to run instead of shutting
off.
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During this engine braking, the engine stays
on, but it is not using any fuel. You may also
hear a slight whine or whistle when operating
your vehicle. This is the normal operation of
the electric generator in the hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle
servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery
may become disconnected or disabled. Once
the battery is reconnected and after driving
the vehicle, the engine may continue to
operate for three to five seconds after the
key is turned to off. This is a normal
condition.
Braking: Your hybrid is equipped with
standard hydraulic braking and regenerative
braking. Regenerative braking is performed
by your transmission and it captures brake
energy and stores it in your high voltage
battery.
Driving to optimize fuel economy
Note: Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In some
cases, it is actually more efficient than
driving in electric mode.
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